Ultralight Backpacks

Backpack choice is important and finding the right backpack will allow Scouts and Adults go on many of the great adventure we have planned.

Recommendation:

Ultralight Backpacks

You can save a lot of weight with a Backpack, but be ready to spend a lot of money on your pack. 

Bags like this (Hyperlite Unbound 40) are a common site on the Pacific Crest Trail, where thru-hikers walk thousands of miles with minimal gear. 

This bag is tough, light and minimal.  This one also has that classic white fabric that's stained and "seasoned" with that special thru-hiker aroma. 

This is a nice option for an experienced hiker who is able to get by with the minimal amount of gear and is looking to trim a few ounces.

From a Scouting perspective, these are generally NOT ideal options:

An ultralight backpack can be a very expensive investment that is not suitable for many hikers.  We recommend that you come talk to our Hiking Team prior to making a big purchase.  We can share information and sometimes discount options for those still interested in ultralight packs. 

ULA Circuit

Image: ula-equipment.com

Hyperlite 3400 Junction

Image: hyperlitemountaingear.com

Hyperlite 4400 Porter
Now known as Porter 70

Ultralight Backpack Examples:

Frameless Packs

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, these were very popular for thruhiking.  These packs reduce their weight by eliminating the backpack frame, extra features and sometimes the waistbelt.  They are meant to be used for small loads - such as thruhiking with ultra-minimal gear in warm environments.

Some allow you to use your sleeping pad to double as a "frame".  A sleeping pad won't give you the same support as a metal or carbon fiber frame, but will give your bag a little bit of structure when very light loads are carried. 

Max Weight Capacity: 20-25 pounds

Twenty pounds isn't much, but if you are traveling in warm, dry climates, "cowboy camping", hut camping or possibly getting resupplies or fed along the way, this may be all that you need. 

Image Source: equinoxltd.com - The Equinox Katahdin (1.6 lbs)

This early 2000s era frameless pack was all the rage for thru-hikers looking to minimize their loads. 

It uses silnylon as a base fabric.  Pack support is provided by your folded or rolled up sleeping pad.

Loads would have to be minimized to allow this pack to work and gear was generally limited to a small silnylon tarp, down comforter and an alcohol stove cook system. 

Frameless backpacks have become more sophisticated over the years with better fabrics and features, but still work about the same with the same load limitations.  

For most of our outings, these are NOT appropriate backpacks for what we do. 

Examples: